The 1997 Illinois Directors' Study: A Report to the Robert R. McCormick Tribune Foundation.

Rafanello, Donna; Bloom, Paula Jorde

This study surveyed directors of licensed and license-exempt early childhood programs in Illinois. Participating were 840 directors who responded to a mailed survey sent to 2,325 directors. Respondents were predominantly white (89 percent), with directors of color representing 11 percent of the sample. Results indicated that the majority of directors felt unprepared when they first assumed administrative positions. They indicated that on-the-job training contributed most to their current level of knowledge and skill. Directors reported that their greatest satisfaction was running a quality program, working with children or parents, and helping others. The greatest frustrations were with staffing issues, individual staff, parents, and lack of funds, time, and poor staff compensation. Mechanisms of support cited as helpful included networking and newsletters. Most believed that a professional organization focusing on directors' needs was needed. Ninety-one percent perceived benefits to developing an Illinois Director Credential. Focus group interviews with 38 directors were held to increase the sample of directors of color and Head Start directors (47% African American, 16% Hispanic, 8% Indian and 29% white). The focus group results indicated that directors were disappointed about the lack of training when they first became administrators. Networking and pooling of resources was named as the greatest resource for directors. They identified a need to be connected to the broader early childhood community. (Appendices include data collection instruments and a list of key informants.) (Author/KB)